Hong Leong Industries Berhad (HLI) has announced the passing of its Independent Non-Executive Director, Dato’ Sharimahton Mat Saleh, who died on 12 July 2026.
The diversified manufacturing group confirmed that Dato’ Sharimahton’s directorship ceased following her demise.
Dato’ Sharimahton, 60, was a highly respected figure in Malaysia’s trade and investment promotion landscape, having dedicated more than three decades to public service.
She began her career with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) in 1989 before joining the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) in 2001 as a Senior Manager.
In 2005, she was appointed Malaysia’s Trade Commissioner in Los Angeles, where she was responsible for promoting Malaysian exports and strengthening trade relations with the United States.
Upon returning to Malaysia, she held several senior leadership positions within MATRADE, overseeing the Exporters Development Division, Strategic Planning Division and Export Promotion Division, with responsibilities spanning the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa.
Dato’ Sharimahton was promoted to Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Exporters Development) in 2017 before assuming the role of Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Export Acceleration) in 2021.
She retired from MATRADE on 1 February 2024 after a distinguished career focused on expanding Malaysia’s export capabilities and supporting the internationalisation of local businesses.
During her tenure, she played a key role in strengthening Malaysia’s trade promotion strategies and helping Malaysian companies penetrate global markets.
Hong Leong Industries did not disclose further details regarding arrangements following her passing.
